In which of the following areas can GPS technology be used ? 1. Mobile phone operations 2. Banking operations 3. Controlling the power grids Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• GPS provides not only position but also highly precise time signals from satellite atomic clocks.
• Mobile networks (1) use GPS timing to synchronise base stations and for location services.
• Banks and stock exchanges (2) use GPS time to time-stamp transactions and synchronise ATMs and trading systems.
• Power grids (3) use GPS-synchronised phasor measurement units to monitor and control grid stability in real time.
• Hence 1, 2 and 3, option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Banking and power grids also rely on GPS timing.
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- Mobile networks also use GPS.
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- Banking systems also use GPS time-stamps.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2018, held on 3 June 2018. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.